The Mata Hari makes reference to the beautiful exotic dancer and alleged double agent of World War I who was wrongfully executed for spying and became the archetype for the term “femme fatale.” In Malay, “mata hari” is the term for the sun, literally “eye of dawn.” This sultry cocktail is a feast for all the senses; stunning to the eye, seductive on the nose, and orgasmic to the taste. We use Employees Only original Chai-Infused Sweet Vermouth with cognac, POM Wonderful pomegranate juice, and garnish with dried rose buds, which enhance its bouquet. The result is a cocktail as exotic and (supposedly) dangerous as its namesake.

　　

Ingredients

makes 1 drink

　　1 1/4 ounces Louis Royer Force 53 VSOP cognac

　　1 ounce Chai-Infused Sweet Vermouth (page 159)

　　3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

　　3/4 ounce pomegranate juice

　　1/2 ounce simple syrup (page 154)

　　3 dried organic rose buds, for garnish

　　

Step 1

Pour the cognac, vermouth, juices, and syrup into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with rose buds.

　　

tasting notes

Step 2

Dominant Flavors: deep red pomegranates with roses on the nose

　　

Step 3

Body: rich, full mouthfeel

　　

Step 4

Dryness: medium

　　

Step 5

Complexity: high

　　

Step 6

Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: chai, cinnamon, and clove interweave

　　

Step 7

Finish: lingering, black tea, spicy

　　

Step 8

Glass: cocktail

　　Reprinted with permission from Speakeasy: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric, © 2010 Ten Speed Press. Buy the full book from Amazon or Bookshop.